How to prepare your classic car after winter lay-off

Most historic cars will have been put in storage over the winter. Here's how to make sure that putting it back on the road in spring doesn't end in tears

March is traditionally the time to prepare your classic car for the (hopefully) sunnier and warmer months ahead.

We’ve compiled this “to do” list to make sure your car is up and running efficiently and safely with the minimum of fuss after the winter lay-off.

The first task is a general once-over covering the whole car. I always found it useful to book an MoT in early March, as a qualified inspector should spot things that the untrained eye could miss, as well as highlight potential problems.

All cars benefit from fresh oil, so change the lubricant (along with the filter) unless it’s relatively fresh. It’s also worth checking the level of anti-freeze in the coolant – it contains vital corrosion inhibitors.

Then check all the other fluid levels. If the brake fluid hasn’t been changed for a while, now is a good time because damp weather through the winter increases its propensity to absorb moisture.

If the battery shows any sign of weakness, it's best to replace it

Most people disconnect the battery before putting a car into hibernation, or use a battery conditioner to keep it topped up. If not, the battery should be given a good charge or, if it shows any sign of weakness, replaced.

Check the spark plugs and clean if necessary. Also check the plug gaps for optimum performance. Change the whole set immediately if they show signs of wear or oiling, or are getting old.

Next, check the condition of all belts and hoses, looking for cracks or fraying. Replace or adjust as necessary.

When you’re satisfied that everything is in order, carry out your normal starting procedure, bearing in mind that fuel may have flowed from the carburettor(s) back to the tank. Fresh fuel will help here, and you may even need to introduce a little proprietary starter fluid to assist the normal process.

If your car is fitted with points, make sure they are clean and correctly gapped. Again, time spent here can prevent a lot of grief further down the line.

Assuming the car starts as it should, don’t rev the engine but run it at a fast idle to allow it to come up to the correct operating temperature gradually.

Time spent on checks now will pay dividends throughout the summer

With the car running, check around the engine bay and underneath for fluid leaks. It also helps to have an assistant depress the brake pedal while you look inside the wheels and at the flexible brake hoses. This is also the point at which to check the brake lights, as well as the main lights and indicators.

Don't forget to check that the handbrake releases properly.

Once the car is up to normal operating temperature, give it a final once-over before gently revving the engine. Don't be put off by steam or water from the exhaust, it's only condensation that has built up during the lay-off – but trust your instincts, and if you think there's too much moisture emitted from the tailpipe switch off immediately and seek specialist assistance.

Revving isn’t strictly necessary, by the way, it’s simply satisfying if you haven’t driven the car for many months.

Next, check the tyres. I usually over-inflate them to prevent flat-spotting while the car is stored so now is the time to make sure they are at the correct pressure.

Finally, the most important part – enjoy.

For all the latest news, advice and reviews from Telegraph Cars, sign up to our weekly newsletter by entering your email here